Flat-headed snake
Tantilla gracilis
Tantilla gracilis
HARMLESS
Description:
This small snake has either a brown, tan, or rust colored back and a head that is darker than its body. It has a pink belly and smooth scales.
Size:
Adults 7 - 8 inches (18 - 20 cm)
Prey:
Centipedes, slugs, insects (and their larvae), and sowbugs.
Reproduction:
Mates in spring months and lays a clutch of up to four eggs, which hatch in early fall.
Habitat:
Rocky prairies and wooded hillsides.
Other Information:
A similar species is the plains black-headed snake, which has seven upper labial scales. The flat-headed snake has only six and has a lighter colored body.
Why doesn't the range map show this species in my county?
Description:
This small snake has either a brown, tan, or rust colored back and a head that is darker than its body. It has a pink belly and smooth scales.
Size:
Adults 7 - 8 inches (18 - 20 cm)
Prey:
Centipedes, slugs, insects (and their larvae), and sowbugs.
Reproduction:
Mates in spring months and lays a clutch of up to four eggs, which hatch in early fall.
Habitat:
Rocky prairies and wooded hillsides.
Other Information:
A similar species is the plains black-headed snake, which has seven upper labial scales. The flat-headed snake has only six and has a lighter colored body.
Why doesn't the range map show this species in my county?